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What Is Mild Cognitive Impairment?

Some people with memory problems have a condition called mild cognitive impairment, or MCI. MCI has several types. The type most associated with memory loss is called amnestic MCI.

Symptoms of MCI

People with amnestic MCI have more memory problems than normal for people their age, but their symptoms are not as severe as those of people with Alzheimer's disease. For example, they do not experience the personality changes or other problems that are characteristic of Alzheimer's. People with MCI are still able to carry out their normal daily activities.

Signs of MCI include:

Losing things often

Forgetting to go to events or appointments

Having more trouble coming up with words than other people of the same age

Movement difficulties and problems with the sense of smell have also been linked to MCI.

Diagnosing MCI

Family and friends may notice memory lapses, and the person with MCI may worry about losing his or her memory. These worries may prompt the person to see a doctor for diagnosis.

Researchers have found that more people with MCI than those without it go on to develop Alzheimer's. However, not everyone who has MCI develops Alzheimer's disease. About 8 of every 10 people who fit the definition of amnestic MCI go on to develop Alzheimer's disease within 7 years. In contrast, 1 to 3 percent of people older than 65 who have normal cognition will develop Alzheimer's in any one year.

Research suggests genetic factors may play a role in who will develop MCI, as they do in Alzheimer's. Studies are underway to learn why some people with MCI progress to Alzheimer's and others do not.

Because MCI may be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease, it's important to see a doctor or specialist every 6 to 12 months.

Joe's Story

Joe was almost 74. He was still working part-time. He noticed he was becoming more forgetful at work. He felt frustrated that it was so hard to find the right words to describe something. His boss told him that he missed a couple of meetings. He started to wonder if he had a serious problem.

Joe's wife took him to get a complete health check-up. His doctor told Joe that he had mild cognitive impairment, also called MCI. The doctor said there was no treatment for MCI, but that he would keep a close watch on Joe's memory and thinking skills. Joe felt better knowing there was a reason for his memory problems.